During a recent city council meeting, local business owners and community leaders voiced urgent concerns regarding the economic and safety challenges facing Minneapolis, particularly in the Uptown area. Judy Longbottom, a business owner with two UPS store locations, highlighted the detrimental impact of social unrest, crime, and ongoing construction on her businesses. She urged the council to activate previously approved funding for an ambassador program and storefront improvements, emphasizing the need for immediate action to support struggling small businesses.

Longbottom expressed confusion over the delay in implementing these programs, stressing that small business owners require customer traffic to sustain their operations and pay their employees. She called for a focus on safety and cost reduction, appealing for the council to prioritize the allocation of tax dollars to support the remaining businesses in the area.

Mo Jama, representing the East African community, echoed these sentiments, detailing the lack of funding and resources for rebuilding after recent turmoil on West Lake Street. He reported a surge in violent crime, including numerous armed robberies, which has left community members feeling unsafe. Jama urged the council to recognize the contributions of the East African community as taxpayers and to reintegrate them into the cultural district, advocating for necessary resources and support.

Lisonbee Sharkey, executive director of the Lake Street Council, expressed gratitude for the council's leadership but emphasized the need for sustained funding for various business support programs. She advocated for lifting funding caps on existing programs and restoring cuts to the Developers Technical Assistance Program. Sharkey also called for investments in public safety initiatives and support for business districts affected by significant road construction.

The meeting underscored a collective plea from local leaders for immediate action to address economic hardships and enhance safety measures, as the community grapples with the ongoing impacts of recent challenges.